After the Hurricane has Passed

(WWLP) - It is important to remember that once a Hurricane has passed, many dangers still exist. You must continue to remain alert at all times, carefully and promptly following directions from your Public Safety officials.

The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) offers these tips:

• If you have been evacuated, do not return to your home until you have been directed to do so by state or local officials.
• Keep tuned to local Media for information about such things as caring for your household, where to find medical help, and applying for financial assistance.
• Do not become a spectator. Unnecessary travel into the most impacted areas could hinder the efforts of Public Safety officials.
• Drive only when and where necessary. Streets may be filled with debris or flooded. Closed roads are for your protection, in that they may be flooded, weakened and could collapse.
• Upon returning, do not turn on any electronic equipment until the electricity has been safely restored.
• Be sure to check all electronic equipment for water damage. If you are uncertain, throw them away. It is better to be safe than risk electrocution.
• Watch for loose or dangling powerlines. Assume any downed wire is a live wire. Be careful for entangled wires when clearing fallen trees with a chainsaw.
• If there is structural damage to your home or downed trees in the yard, use care.
• Open doors and windows to ventilate you home.
• Limit your use of the telephone, utilizing it only for emergency calls. If you need special help, call your local Emergency Management Office or Mass2-1-1, which is available 24/7 to respond to your questions.
• Use bottled water until local officials have determined the safety of the water supply.
• Guard against spoiled food. If the power was disrupted, food in the refrigerator may have spoiled. Freezers can keep food for several days if unopened.
• Do not refreeze food once it begins to thaw.
• Safely use generators outdoors, in well ventilated area. Ensure that they are installed properly.
• If there is property damage, contact your insurance agent as soon as possible.
• Take photographs or video of damage. Keep a detailed record of all cleanup costs.
• Do not turn your yard into a dump. Have debris hauled away before it causes additional heath hazards.
• Yards that have been contaminated by flooded sewage systems should be disinfected by a liberal application of lime. Children and animals should be kept away from limed areas until the lime is no longer visible.
• If your home, apartment or business has suffered damage, call your insurance company or agent who handles your flood insurance right away to file a claim. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) administers the National Flood Insurance Plan (NFIP) through the Federal Insurance Administration (FIA). The NFIP makes flood insurance available in communities that adopt and enforce ordinances to reduce flood damage.
• Be a good neighbor. Make sure those around you are safe and have the help that they need.
• Be prepared for a rough time. Recovering from a hurricane is a big job. It is taxing on the body and spirit. The after-effects of this type of disaster on you and your family may last a long time. Consult a health professional on how to recognize and care for anxiety, stress and fatigue.
• Be patient, for there are probably many others with serious damage, as well.